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Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Trillium Flow Technologies

Project Engineer

Fresno, CA

$77K - $93K/yr

This entry-level role assists in preparing drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and technical reports while ensuring accuracy and compliance with company and industry standards. The Project Engineer ...

Trillium Flow Technologies

Project Engineer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$77K - $93K/yr

This entry-level role assists in preparing drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and technical reports while ensuring accuracy and compliance with company and industry standards. The Project Engineer ...

3VI

Project Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Salary: $75,000 - $95,000 Project Engineer (Graduate, Entry level or Experienced) Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid Remote (3 days in office, 2 days at home) Why join us? Join a growing engineering ...

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Entry Level Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$81K

$148.5K

How much do entry level project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project engineer in California is $80,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Project Engineer vs Project Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Project EngineerProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree; often in business or management
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering offices, industrial settingsOffice settings, project management teams
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, manufacturingConstruction, IT, corporate projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Project Engineer typically focuses on technical aspects of projects, including design, planning, and engineering tasks, often working directly with engineers and technical teams. In contrast, a Project Coordinator handles administrative tasks, schedules, and communication between teams. Both roles are essential in project execution but differ in technical involvement and responsibilities.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level project engineers do not earn that level of salary, senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. High compensation typically involves leadership roles, significant project responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

What does an Entry Level Project Engineer do?

An Entry Level Project Engineer assists in planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers. Typical responsibilities include preparing technical documents, assisting with project scheduling, monitoring progress, and communicating with team members and stakeholders to ensure project goals are met. They may also help troubleshoot issues, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and support quality assurance efforts. This role provides valuable hands-on experience for recent graduates or those new to the engineering field, often serving as a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

Can you become a project engineer with no experience?

Entry level project engineer positions typically require some related education or internship experience, but they often do not require prior full-time work in the role. Candidates with strong technical skills, relevant certifications, and a willingness to learn can sometimes qualify for these roles without extensive experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Engineer, a solid background in engineering principles, a relevant degree, and basic project management knowledge are essential. Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Project, and industry-specific software, along with any relevant certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training), is often required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies enable effective project coordination, technical accuracy, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Project Engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from senior engineers, staying organized with project management tools, and regularly checking in with your supervisor can help you succeed. Embracing a willingness to learn and asking questions will also build your technical confidence and foster strong working relationships.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Entry level project engineers typically earn salaries below $100,000 annually, with higher earnings possible through experience, specialization, or management roles. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced skills, and often leadership positions in large projects or firms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Project Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in CA? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Project Engineer jobs near you
Entry Level Project Engineer - Southern California

Entry Level Project Engineer - Southern California

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Newport Beach, CA

$72K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This job posting is intended for early career professionals with approximately one year or less of industry work experience. Current seniors enrolled in a 4 year college degree program who are graduating within one year are also encouraged to apply.

The Project Engineer’s position establishes the fundamental principles for an individual’s growth and success within McCarthy. In this hands-on role, you will gain experience with project controls and communications as well as get exposure to the technical aspects of constructing a project. This position is the initial step in developing the managerial and communication skills for project management. 

Please note: This position will be based out of the Southern California area but will require relocation to support projects out-of-state for a certain period of time.
Key Responsibilities: 

  • General Contract and Subcontract administration
  • Monitor/document job-site safety and accident prevention
  • Construction scheduling
  • Procurement and expediting of material and equipment
  • Mechanical, electrical and piping systems coordination
  • Shop drawing/submittal review and coordination
  • Project cost review, reporting, updating and accounting
  • Review of subcontractor applications for payment
  • Participation in/documentation of project coordination meetings
  • Supervision/coordination of subcontractors’ field installations
  • Review/negotiate change proposal pricing from subcontractors and prepare change proposal pricing for self-performed work
  • Change order documentation and associated cost reporting and maintenance
  • Research and suggest options on construction means, methods and equipment
  • Maintenance of As-Built plans
  • Quality control and project closeout

Skills & Qualifications:   

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management or Engineering required
  • General knowledge of construction principles/practices required
  • Strong work ethic and desire to work in a team environment required
  • Must be geographically mobile and able to work anywhere in the following counties: Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire.
  • Construction internship or other related construction work experience preferred

For Southern California locations, the starting salary for this position is: $88,000. This does not include possible bonus and other benefits which can impact total compensation. Compensation offered may vary based on work location, experience, qualifications, specialty, training, and market and business considerations, among other factors. 

McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status. 

What McCarthy Building Companies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

Social media

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